From Auckland: Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Day Trip with Lunch

Are you looking for a great day trip from Auckland? If so, then you won’t be disappointed by spending a day at Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves with lunch in Auckland. This tour package has something for everyone, and is one of the most popular day trips from Auckland.

Overview

This tour package includes a guided walking tour of Hobbiton, the famous movie set for “The Lord of the Rings’ and “The Hobbit’ trilogies. You will also have the chance to explore the underground wonders of Waitomo Caves, and end the day off with a delicious lunch in Auckland.

Highlights

• Take a guided walking tour of Hobbiton, the shooting location of “The Lord of the Rings’ and “The Hobbit’ movies
• Learn more about the story behind The Shire and how the movie sets were built
• Experience the fascinating underground formations of Waitomo Caves
• Include guided boat and glowworm cave tours through the caves
• Savor a delicious lunch in an authentic New Zealand cafe

Itinerary

This tour will start off with a pick-up from your hotel in Auckland. You will then make your way to Matamata, where you will experience a guided walking tour of the movie sets of The Shire from “The Lord of the Rings’ and “The Hobbit’. During the tour, you will get to enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, before making your way to the Waitomo Caves.

At the Waitomo Caves, you will enjoy guided tours through the impressive underground caves, learning more about the fascinating formations thriving within them. You will also explore some side caverns on a boat tour and visit a quiet corner where you get to witness glowworms light up the darkness.

Afterwards, savor an authentic New Zealand cafe lunch before heading back to Auckland.

What’s Included

• Transfers from and to Auckland
• Guided walking tour at Hobbiton
• Cave and glowworm tours at Waitomo Caves
• Lunch in an authentic New Zealand cafe

Should You Take This Tour?

If you are staying in Auckland and looking for an exciting day trip out of the city, then you can’t go wrong with this option. The breathtaking views of The Shire and glowing blue of the Waitomo Caves make this a truly incredible experience. Whether or not you are familiar with “The Lord of the Rings’ films, you are sure to appreciate this unique experience.

In addition, this package includes lunch in an authentic New Zealand cafe, where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine and gain an even more authentic taste of New Zealand culture.

If you are ready to have an amazing day spent exploring beautiful New Zealand landscapes and underground wonders, then book this tour package today! For more information about this tour and to book your ticket, visit GetYourGuide’s website.

Insider’s Guide to Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, located on New Zealand’s North Island, is a stunning cosmopolitan city surrounded by natural beauty. From volcano hikes and beaches to art museums and entertainment hubs, Auckland is a fantastic destination with a rich cultural heritage.

Local Attractions

Auckland central has many attractions worth visiting. Start by exploring Waiheke Island to experience a wine tour, Segway tour, or just enjoy its beautiful scenery and beaches. The Sky Tower, standing tall at 328 meters, offers 360-degree views of the city and is a must-visit tourist attraction. Devonport, with its Victorian-style wooden cottages, is another popular spot for tourists and locals. You can catch a ferry from Auckland’s CBD and explore Devonport, which offers great dining options and scenic walks.

Dining Spots

Auckland is a food lover’s paradise with some of the best restaurants in New Zealand. Head over to the Ponsonby or Britomart area, where you’ll find a mix of casual cafe style food, mid-range dining options, and fine-dining restaurants. A hidden gem is Coco’s Cantina in Karangahape Road, serving homemade Italian food. Take a stroll down Federal Street for a range of international cuisines, including celebrity Chef restaurants like Al Brown’s Depot and Simon Gault’s Euro.

Cultural Experiences

New Zealand is diverse, and this is reflected in Auckland’s cultural scene. Take part in a traditional Maori cultural experience at Tamaki Maori Village, where you’ll witness haka performances, hangi feasts, and learn about Maori culture and history. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki displays an extensive collection of art, including indigenous pieces. Check out the Auckland Museum to explore the city’s historical, cultural, and natural heritage.

Local History

Auckland is rich in history, with a diverse range of architecture and historical sites that tell the story of New Zealand’s past. Take a journey back in time to Auckland’s oldest neighborhood, Parnell, which features beautifully preserved historic buildings and the Parnell Rose Gardens. Check out the Auckland War Memorial Museum, located in the Domain, which holds significant historical and wartime artifacts. Also, visit the St. Patrick’s Cathedral located in the central city area, showcasing the city’s grand religious architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Auckland has unique hidden gems that are off the tourist radar. Take a visit to the Auckland Botanic Gardens and explore the vast collection of plants and flora. Alternatively, take a trip out to Matakana, located an hour north of Auckland, where you can indulge in local wine and enjoy a relaxing spa day. Tawharanui Regional Park, located north of Auckland, is a remote expanse of untouched scenic beauty, with white sand beaches, clear waters, and native forests.

Conclusion

This insider’s guide provides a glimpse into Auckland’s vibrant and rich cultural heritage. Auckland is a modern city intertwined with natural beauty and unique cultural experiences that are worth exploring. With various attractions, dining experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path options, Auckland is an exciting destination for travelers of all sorts.